Today in Focus
The Guardian
Hosted by Nosheen Iqbal and Helen Pidd, Today in Focus brings you closer to Guardian journalism. Combining storytelling with insightful analysis and personal testimonies, the podcast takes you behind the headlines for a deeper understanding of the news, every weekday. Today in Focus is unmatched in both scope and depth, delivering analysis and storytelling from right across the planet. With a global network of over 900 journalists and five dedicated editions covering news in the US, UK, Australia, Europe, and beyond, the Guardian offers comprehensive reporting across every continent. Most recently we have introduced new correspondents in the Caribbean, South America and Africa.
Episodes
Mentioned books
6 snips
Jan 23, 2025 • 21min
Why is AI so thirsty?
Helena Horton, an Environment reporter at The Guardian, dives into the intricate balance between AI technology and environmental sustainability. She explores how AI can help combat climate change while highlighting the environmental toll of data centers, particularly in water-stressed areas. Helena discusses the urgent need for responsible AI practices amid government plans to expand AI in the public sector. The conversation weaves personal success stories with cautionary tales, emphasizing the importance of innovative solutions for a sustainable technological future.
8 snips
Jan 22, 2025 • 25min
The first days of Trump and the migrant raids to come
Joan E Greve, a Senior political correspondent at Guardian US, discusses Trump's controversial immigration executive orders and their immediate impact on undocumented migrants. Annie Huamani, a community organizer, provides a grassroots perspective on fear within migrant communities. They explore community resilience against potential ICE raids, the strategies migrants employ to cope with anxiety, and the legal challenges arising from strict immigration policies. They also touch on how shifting political tides could signal a return to more progressive immigration laws.
14 snips
Jan 21, 2025 • 27min
The financial time bomb facing special educational needs
Richard Adams, Education editor of The Guardian, sheds light on the SEND funding crisis impacting children in England. He discusses the systemic issues faced by families like that of six-year-old Violet, illustrating the emotional toll of legal struggles for support. Adams highlights the burdensome process of securing Education Health Care Plans and the frustrations of local authorities under financial strain. He emphasizes the urgent need for reforms to address rising demands and the significant challenges faced by families and schools navigating the crisis.
25 snips
Jan 20, 2025 • 23min
Trump 2.0
Hugo Lowell, Senior Political Correspondent for Guardian US, and David Smith, the Washington Correspondent for The Guardian, dive into the implications of Donald Trump's return to the White House. They discuss the anxiety surrounding his second inauguration and the surprising support from tech moguls like Elon Musk. The duo sheds light on Trump's evolving power dynamics at Mar-a-Lago and the serious legal challenges he faces, including criminal charges. Their insights provide a compelling look at what lies ahead for Trump's administration.
22 snips
Jan 17, 2025 • 25min
Finally, a ceasefire in Gaza
Bethan McKernan, The Guardian's Jerusalem correspondent, delves into the recent ceasefire between Israel and Hamas, sharing the emotional reactions from those affected. She discusses the contrasting responses in Gaza and Israel, revealing complex sentiments amid celebrations and protests. The conversation highlights a significant diplomatic breakthrough, driven by assertive leadership, and addresses the intricate challenges of potential military withdrawal. McKernan emphasizes the urgent need for a sustained peace, illuminating the humanitarian crisis stemming from the conflict.
21 snips
Jan 17, 2025 • 28min
A golden age of cancer treatment?
Andrew Gregory, The Guardian’s health editor, discusses revolutionary technologies transforming cancer treatment. Abby Halls, a brave cervical cancer survivor in her 20s, shares her decade-long journey through innovative trials. They delve into the evolution of therapies from traditional methods to groundbreaking techniques like CAR T cell therapy and personalized vaccines. The conversation highlights the emotional struggles of chemotherapy and the critical need for early diagnosis, all while addressing the challenges of accessing these promising new treatments.
Jan 16, 2025 • 25min
The resignation of Tulip Siddiq
Kieran Stacey, a Political Correspondent at The Guardian, sheds light on the resignation of Labour MP Tulip Siddiq amidst corruption allegations. He delves into her political ties and affluent background, as well as her family's controversial influence in Bangladesh. The discussion reveals complexities of investigations into high-ranking officials and property dealings tied to the Bangladeshi regime. Stacey also explores the broader implications of Siddiq's departure on her political future and the Labour Party's credibility.
Jan 15, 2025 • 28min
‘The entire community is just gone’: inside the Los Angeles wildfires
Gabrielle Canon, the Guardian US extreme weather correspondent based in California, shares her insights on the devastating wildfires ravaging Los Angeles. She discusses the emotional chaos of families facing evacuation and the heartbreaking choices they must make. Canon highlights the growing trend of winter fires linked to climate change and the challenges of rebuilding, especially with inadequate insurance coverage. The conversation emphasizes the urgent need for accountability from local leaders and the importance of community resilience amidst these disasters.
Jan 14, 2025 • 36min
A new Facebook for the era of President Trump
Jesse Stiller, a fact-checker with experience combating misinformation at Meta, and Chris Stokel-Walker, a technology journalist focused on Meta’s societal impact, dive into the shifting landscape of social media under Mark Zuckerberg. They discuss the alarming end of partnerships with fact-checkers and its implications for the spread of misinformation. The duo reflects on notorious incidents like Pizzagate, the complexities of digital fact-checking, and the potential consequences of new tech regulations on user safety and content moderation.
4 snips
Jan 13, 2025 • 26min
Culture 2025: what to watch, read and listen to this year
Lanre Bakare, the Guardian's arts and culture correspondent, dives into the year's must-watch TV shows, while music editor Ben Beaumont-Thomas shares insights on 2025's musical evolution. They discuss anticipated films like 'The Brutalist' and the return of 'Severance'. The duo highlights a cultural shift towards vibrant dance music and the growing influence of emerging UK artists like Sam Fender. Expect talk on nostalgia with a legendary band reunion, alongside the transformative live music experiences capturing younger audiences.
